BT

By Bruce Britt

Dec 1 2004

Credited with pioneering the hallucinogenic electronic sound known as “trance,” Brian “BT” Transeau is renowned worldwide for his unique solo artistry. But lately the songwriter, producer and film-score composer has emerged as one of the entertainment industry’s most potent behind-the-scenes forces.

Whether crafting succulent pop hooks for *NSYNC, composing intricate scores with 80-piece orchestras for films like The Fast and the Furious , collaborating with Sting on a track from the superstar’s album, or remixing tracks for Madonna, Sarah McLachlan and Tori Amos, BT is demonstrating the sort of broad creative range that is the hallmark of a true artist.

Now, with the release of his new Nettwerk America Records album Emotional Technology , BT could rightly add “truthseeker” to his growing list of job descriptions. Picking up where previous albums like IMA , ESCM and Movement in Still Life left off, Emotional Technology’s insistent dance grooves and enticing pop melodies are underscored by soul-searching lyrics that reconcile spirit and machine.

It’s this sort of artistry that has won BT the respect of fans and musicians worldwide. “BT mounts mesmerizing journeys with his compositions,” rock legend Peter Gabriel recently told the L.A. Times . “He is not only a virtuoso programmer, but an extremely gifted musician.”

Having scored such acclaimed films as Go and Under Suspicion , BT is currently working on the highly anticipated Monster , starring Charlize Theron and Christina Ricci. Ironically, BT’s spiritual quests seem to be resulting in ever-increasing material success.